James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Constitutional Convention has discussed and considered a range of issues. I am very happy to be involved and take part in the wide range of discussions which bring about reform to the Constitution. It is an important forum when so many people are asking what is the proper role of government. The proper role of government is to protect equal rights, not equal things. We are all born equal, not in abilities or talents, but under the law and in our rights. We need to be honest and fair and the Government is honest and fair on this, to secure those rights for all our people.

The Constitutional Convention was established by the Government and is following a set procedure and terms of reference set by the Government. The authority to amend the Constitution rests with the people of Ireland under the ratification process by way of a referendum. We all welcome referenda. I agree with my colleague, Deputy Charles Flanagan, that it is a pity that people do not turn out in greater force for referenda because our Constitution is the bible by which we are guided. Many countries across the world do not have a constitution. It is a very important document and should be respected. This Constitutional Convention is an historic event in Irish constitutional development. It is also important for decision making where we, the members, are asked for opinions on a range of issues. These issues include rights, reducing the presidential term, giving citizens who are resident outside the State the right to vote, the provision for same-sex marriage, encouraging greater participation by women in the political process, reviewing the Dáil electoral system and reducing the age limit for voting from 18 to 16 years. The establishment of a stronger Constitution will protect the rights of all citizens and this should be respected.

At the Constitutional Convention a strong majority favoured the amendment of the Constitution to provide for same-sex marriage. A strong majority recommended legislation to accompany any such amendment. Legislation would provide specifically for changed arrangements regarding the parentage, guardianship and upbringing of children. The reason for including this option on the ballot paper was that in the case of same-sex couples with children, at least one parent will not be a genetic parent and, therefore, the usual rules regarding custody and guardianship would need to be reviewed and adapted. We need electoral reform. I raised the issue earlier today with the Taoiseach that we need to examine the establishment of an electoral commission. I hope something will be done to ensure there is a greater turnout and participation of people in future referenda because this is important for citizens.

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